Should I Get a Home Inspection?
The 2020-21 housing market was absolutely crazy, with most homes having multiple offers and going under contract within days of hitting the market. Many of those selling above asking price with cash offers. Many experts believe these trends will continue throughout 2022. While this is great if you are selling a home, how do you compete when you're buying? Many have chosen to make their offer more attractive by waiving the home inspection contingency. But is this a good idea? Do you really need a home inspection?
The short answer is YES. Even in today's real estate market you need a home inspection performed by a licensed professional inspector. Purchasing a home is the single largest investment most of us will make in our lifetimes. The home inspection period is your chance to get a thorough evaluation of that investment in its current condition. Without a doubt, you are thinking, ‘of course the home inspector would say I need and inspection;’ but let's consider a couple of things:
How long do you spend in a house before you decide to purchase?
Typical showings last 30 - 45 minutes. In that time frame, you can get a pretty good idea of what you like or don't like about the home, changes you'd like to make, and an overall feel for the home. However; 30 - 45 minutes is nowhere near enough time to get a thorough understanding of the repairs that need to be done or what it will take to maintain the home. A home inspection typically takes 3 - 4 hours to complete and is focused on finding those areas in need of repair and educating the buyer on crucial points of home maintenance.
During a showing, how often do you get on a roof, in the attic or crawlspace, open electrical panels, or verify the correct operation of the HVAC system?
Purchasing a home is expensive and all homes have problems, even new construction. The reality is that sellers will oftentimes (not always) repair the easily observable defects while more critical repairs are needed in the areas of the home that are more difficult to access. A good home inspector providing a quality inspection will be walking the roof, crawling around in the attic and crawlspace, opening panels, and much more, trying to determine the current condition of the home so you can make an informed decision. There is no reason you need to make this huge investment only to be blind-sided by repairs you weren't ready for. Getting an inspection by a licensed professional ensures you can make an educated decision about the home you are purchasing.
While there are many, these are just a couple of reasons you should get a home inspection by a qualified professional. At Southpoint Inspections, we take an educational approach to home inspections. We not only look for the deficiencies of the home; we do our best to educate you about what it takes to own and maintain it. Whether you're buying, selling, or already own your home, don't miss the opportunity to get to know it.
